Abstract
We study the phase separation of binary lipid mixtures that form bicontinuous cubic phases. The competition between the nonuniform Gaussian membrane curvature and line tension leads to a very rich phase diagram, where we observe symmetry breaking of the membrane morphologies and reentrant phenomena due to the formation of bridges between segregated domains. Upon increasing the line tension contribution, we also find faceting of lipid domains that we explain using a simple argument based on the symmetry of the underlying surface and topology.
Highlights
Introduction.—Lipid self-assembly can adopt an astonishing range of shapes and morphologies, from single bilayer structures to stacks and convoluted periodic structures [1]
We study the phase separation of binary lipid mixtures that form bicontinuous cubic phases
Upon increasing the line tension contribution, we find faceting of lipid domains that we explain using a simple argument based on the symmetry of the underlying surface and topology
Summary
Introduction.—Lipid self-assembly can adopt an astonishing range of shapes and morphologies, from single bilayer structures to stacks and convoluted periodic structures [1]. The competition between the nonuniform Gaussian membrane curvature and line tension leads to a very rich phase diagram, where we observe symmetry breaking of the membrane morphologies and reentrant phenomena due to the formation of bridges between segregated domains.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
